Biopesticides in Ghana: vegetable farmers’ perception and willingness to pay

Abstract

The study investigates farmers’ perceptions of pests, pest control practices and their Willingness to Pay (WTP) for a new biopesticide in Ghana. The survey results suggest a rising trend in vegetable pest intensity with significant variation in farmers’ pest control practices, especially their choice of pesticide(s). Farmers are willing to pay a substantial price premium for improved agricultural environmental safety and cost reduction or yield enhancing benefits of a new biopesticide. Farmers’ perception that vegetable pest intensity is increasing, and their experience in farming and with the use of Dipel, a biopesticide, are identified to be the statistically significant determinants of farmers’ WTP for the new biopesticide. Evidence of farmers trying out other biopesticides or botanical products is an indication that there is good market potential for new biopesticides, although the market growth is likely to be slow. However, existing pest control practices combined with other results of this study indicate a need for enhanced and targeted education of farmers on the use of alternative pest control methods. Other recommendations include intensifying current initiatives geared at reducing the misuse of chemical pesticides, education of specific target groups, increased promotion of botanical products such as neem extracts, and wider dissemination of biological control and integrated pest management techniques.